[blaser-waffle]

Polygraphs are there to create a high-stakes stress/interrogation situation to see if someone cracks or reacts. It's more of an art form than a science -- and that's why it's not admissible as evidence in a criminal investigation (and shouldn't be)

The rationale for continued use in clearance screenings is that it's not scientific, but it's better than nothing.

[jacquesm]

I don't think it is better than nothing at all. Passing a polygraph test is now potentially a false signal, giving a false sense of security to the parties concerned. Without a signal the situation would be better.